Savchenko and Szolkowy withdraw from Euros

ISU Media Advisory (1/25/2012)

Aliona Savchenko/Robin Szolkowy (GER) have withdrawn from the ISU European Figure Skating Championships 2012 before the Pairs Short Program, citing injury. The couple decided to withdraw following the morning practice.

Savchenko had suffered a injury to her left thigh in a fall on a throw jump in practice in Chemnitz, Germany on Thursday, January 12.

"Aliona aggravated her injury when doing a pair spin in training. She is in pain and unable to perform all elements," said German team doctor Stefan Pfrengle. "We will continue intense physiotherapy and I expect her to resume training in five to seven days," he added.

"It was a very difficult decision for us. We came to the Eurpoean Championships and now we are unable to compete. The risk is too high to aggravate the injury further," coach Ingo Steuer said.